Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for construction and infrastructure projects in a dynamic local authority team.
- Company: Join a busy Local Authority with a focus on impactful community projects.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid working, and potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public procurement while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in Local Authority procurement and strong knowledge of public regulations.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for professional growth.
Contract Length: 6 months (with potential for extension)
Day Rate: Up to £500/day (inside IR35)
Location: Hybrid - 1 day per week on-site in Birmingham
Start Date: ASAP
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Category Manager - Hard FM to join a busy Local Authority procurement team on an interim basis. This is a hands-on, operational role, ideal for a self-sufficient professional who thrives in a fast-paced, delivery-focused environment. You will lead end-to-end procurement activity for a range of construction works and professional services projects, ensuring compliance with internal governance and public procurement regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead procurements across: new housing developments and regeneration schemes; highways and transport infrastructure; schools infrastructure and other property and works-related procurements
- Develop and implement procurement strategies
- Conduct market engagement and tender processes
- Draft and review governance reports
- Chair moderation sessions and support evaluations
- Prepare contract documentation and manage modifications
Essential Requirements
- Local Authority procurement experience
- Extensive Hard FM category experience
- Completion of the TPP 10-module course (PA23 deep-dive highly desirable)
- Strong working knowledge of public procurement regulations
- Proven ability to manage complex procurements independently
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and governance skills
If you are a confident procurement professional with a strong track record in Local Government and are ready to hit the ground running, we would love to hear from you.
What you need to do now
If you are interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Category Manager- Hard FM employer: HAYS Specialist Recruitment
Contact Detail:
HAYS Specialist Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager- Hard FM
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the Local Authority and procurement sectors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of public procurement regulations and Hard FM categories. We want you to be ready to showcase your expertise and how it aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a quick email or call to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and open-minded. If this specific role isn’t the perfect fit, let’s chat about other opportunities that might suit your skills. We’re here to help you find the right match!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager- Hard FM
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your Local Authority procurement experience and any relevant Hard FM projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you’ve successfully managed complex procurements or developed effective strategies. This will help us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Keep It Professional: While we love a friendly tone, keep your application professional. Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors, and use clear, concise language. This shows us that you pay attention to detail, which is crucial in procurement.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just click 'apply now'!
How to prepare for a job interview at HAYS Specialist Recruitment
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of public procurement regulations and Hard FM category specifics. Be ready to discuss your past experiences in managing complex procurements and how you've navigated challenges in local authority settings.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your stakeholder engagement abilities. Think about times when you successfully collaborated with various teams or external partners, and be ready to explain how you ensured everyone was on the same page during procurement processes.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-world procurement situations. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies, especially in high-pressure environments like housing developments or infrastructure projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
Think about how you've developed and implemented procurement strategies in the past. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've used and the outcomes they achieved, as this will show your potential employer that you can hit the ground running.
